Raised in Boston’s Chestnut Hill/Brookline neighborhood, John Simon graduated from Harvard and earned a Rhodes Scholarship, but his mind and heart have always been focused on helping others. Since his early twenties, he’s been an active volunteer, fearless leader, and social innovator, touching lives and building successful organizations around the world.

When it comes to building an effective enthusiastic nonprofit board, John Simon is the go-to guy for expert advice. So, on a sunny Wednesday in Boston’s seaport district, Mr. Simon and I met for a fascinating Q&A chat about importing ideas, taking risks, and why you don’t have to be über experienced to land a leading seat on a nonprofit board.